She’s Dying to Give Birth

watercolor 30″ X 22″

As in many tragedies, the personal becomes political when the lens is refocused on the bigger picture. Due to their location on the planet some expectant mothers are at a much greater risk for themselves and their child. If complications occur, there will be no medical intervention available. Laboring with no progress to natural birth where medical facilities are not accessible or there is not a doctor to perform a surgical delivery results in mother and/or infant death. A child bride is at extra risk as the physical maturity of her pelvis may not allow passage of the baby. Cultural practices and lack of vision and commitment to improved healthcare contribute to this situation.